I Cor. 4;15-17

“For even if you had ten thousand others to teach you about Christ, you have only one spiritual father. For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. So I urge you to imitate me. That’s why I have sent Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you of how I follow Christ Jesus, just as I teach in all the churches wherever I go.”

Again, ‘spiritual parenting’. It is great to have teachers and preachers and bible study leaders and SS class leaders and camp counselors and small group leaders etc.  In contrast to all of these is the ‘spiritual parent’. The parent is usually involved in the birth (new birth) of the creation (new creation) and has a special role. Paul was this to many of the Corinthians.

He and his team led them to faith in Christ. He reminds them of this and like any good parent he says – “Imitate me”. 

Parents provide the model for their children.  Spiritual parents provide the model for their spiritual children.  Parents also provide the ongoing reminders of what to do, how to do it and who to be. Paul did this through Timothy, who would be like an older brother (not father) to the Corinthians.  

In some families, the spiritual parents are also the biological parents. 

QUESTION: What is your story? Who is your spiritual parent? 

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